In February 2024, an innovative venture was born: Shelley Hive Co. Founded by seasoned builder Bob Coffelt and entrepreneurial spirit Erin Higgins, Shelley Hive Co., emerged from a blend of expertise, curiosity, and a passion for sustainability. The company has since redefined the art of beekeeping with their insulated, top-bar hives made from Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC). But this isn’t just a story about hives; it’s about a shared vision, a bit of serendipity, and a touch of literary inspiration too!
The Spark of Innovation
The journey to Shelley Hive Co. began with an unexpected series of phone calls. Bob, owner of Northwest AAC, a company specializing in durable, eco-friendly construction materials, started receiving inquiries about using AAC to build beehives. Intrigued by the idea and inspired by the European “Zest Hive” design, Bob and Erin decided to explore the concept.
Bob brought decades of experience working with AAC, a lightweight yet durable material celebrated for its insulating properties and resistance to mold and pests. Known for its use in sustainable construction worldwide, AAC seemed like the perfect fit for beehives, addressing key challenges like temperature regulation and durability. In a burst of creativity during a cold weekend, Bob and Erin built their first prototype in their backyard. Though the initial design was rough—affectionately dubbed their “Frankenstein’s monster”—it marked the beginning of something extraordinary.
A Legacy of Beekeeping
For Bob, beekeeping runs deep. Growing up in Chester County, Pennsylvania, his family maintained hives on their property. “I was just a kid, helping my dad inspect the bees,” Bob recalls. “We had all the tools, from smokers to extractors. I didn’t realize how much I was learning.” Those childhood experiences laid the groundwork for his understanding of bees and their critical role in ecosystems.
Erin, on the other hand, was new to beekeeping. But as she immersed herself in the project, she found inspiration in the industrious, harmonious world of bees. “It’s been transformative,” she says. “I’ve learned so much about the delicate balance of nature and how much bees contribute to our food systems and environment.”
The Spirit of Shelley
The company’s name, Shelley Hive Co., pays homage to Erin’s ancestral connection to Mary Shelley, the famed author of Frankenstein. While Mary Shelley’s works may not explicitly feature bees, her themes of creation, innovation, and ecological balance resonate deeply with the company’s mission. Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poetry, with its vivid imagery of industrious bees and natural interconnectedness, further ties the Shelley’s legacy to this new endeavor.
This literary lineage adds a layer of depth and whimsy to Shelley Hive Co. Erin explains, “Naming the company Shelley Hive Co., felt right—it honors both a family legacy and the creative, experimental spirit we bring to this venture.”
Innovation Meets Sustainability
What sets Shelley hives apart is the use of AAC, a material that offers unparalleled insulation, keeping bees warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Its rough texture mimics the natural surfaces bees prefer, while its soundproofing qualities reduce external disturbances. Designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, Shelley hives are as beautiful as they are practical.
Erin’s meticulous attention to detail complements Bob’s utilitarian approach. “I focus on making it perfect—smooth finishes, lime washes, everything aligned,” Erin shares. “Bob ensures it’s functional and sturdy. Together, we create something truly unique.”
Looking Ahead
As Shelley Hive Co. continues to grow, the founders are committed to fostering community and education. Their hives are not just products but platforms for teaching and collaboration. Whether it’s supporting backyard beekeepers or partnering with researchers to explore hive health, Shelley Hive Co. is creating a buzz in the world of beekeeping.
At its heart, Shelley Hive Co. embodies the industrious, interconnected spirit of bees themselves. With a foundation of innovation, sustainability, and a nod to literary genius, Bob and Erin are proving that even the smallest creatures can inspire big ideas. And for those who join the Shelley Hive Co. journey, the promise of a sweeter, more sustainable world awaits.
